British Airways, the nation’s flag carrier with over 100 years of aviation heritage, proudly connects Britain with the world. As an airline synonymous with originality and a commitment to connecting people globally, British Airways fosters an environment where careers can thrive without limits. Joining this esteemed airline means becoming part of a legacy built on innovation and a shared spirit with passengers, partners, and colleagues. At British Airways, the sky truly is never the limit; it is the starting point for a career of ambition and significant achievement.
British Airways seeks highly skilled and experienced pilots for Direct Entry First Officer positions within its Long Haul fleets. The successful candidate will place the customer at the heart of every flight, striving to provide an exceptional flight experience for each passenger. This role demands world-class flying capabilities and the daily challenge of performing to the highest professional standards across diverse and often far-flung destinations.
A career as a British Airways pilot offers a dynamic and expansive trajectory. Pilots commencing on one of the airline's four Long Haul fleets will have the flexibility to transfer to other Long Haul fleets or the Short Haul fleet, with clear pathways for progression to Captain roles. Beyond the flight deck, countless opportunities exist for career development in areas such as training, recruitment, and various operational roles across the wider business, supporting a balanced and fulfilling professional life. The airline is committed to its pilots' development, offering support for taking on new challenges and advancing within the organisation.
To be considered for this prestigious role, candidates must meet stringent licensing and medical requirements. Applicants are required to hold a UK Part-FCL ATPL(A) or demonstrate eligibility to upgrade to an ATPL(A) during the type rating course. Alternatively, candidates holding an EASA licence must satisfy the UK CAA’s "Third Country CPL and ATPL licence conversion requirements," specifically routes 3, 4, 5, or 6. Possession of a current UK issued CAA Flight Crew Licence (ATPL(A), fATPL(A), or MPL) is also acceptable, as is an EASA licence meeting the stipulated conversion criteria.
Job offers for Direct Entry First Officers will predominantly be made for the A320 and Boeing 777 fleets. Pilots assigned to the Boeing 777 operate from both Heathrow and Gatwick airports and will also operate the future Boeing 777X aircraft upon its entry into service. A limited number of vacancies may be available on other fleets, with preference given to candidates holding a current type rating on the specific aircraft type. Movements to other fleets following initial assignment are processed via the internal fleet move system based on seniority. Long-haul suitability will be assessed during the simulator assessment phase. It is important to note that A320 currently represents the primary recruiting fleet.
Candidates progress through a multi-stage assessment process. Specific reapplication timelines apply for candidates not successful at various stages: 6 months after initial screening, video interview, capacity testing, or assessment centre stages, and 12 months after the simulator stage. Candidates may apply to only one airline within the British Airways family (British Airways, Euroflyer, or Cityflyer) at any given time. Unsuccessful candidates must wait for the specified re-apply period to elapse before applying to any of the three airlines. Successful candidates are placed into a hold pool and are eligible to receive a maximum of two job offers. Declining a second job offer requires waiting 12 months before becoming eligible to reapply and complete the selection process anew. Current BA Cityflyer Pilots must apply via the internal Jobsearch platform.
British Airways is dedicated to being an equal opportunities employer and places high value on diversity across its workforce. The airline does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. Applications are strongly encouraged from individuals of all backgrounds, as British Airways recognises and celebrates the unique originality, creativity, and identity each colleague brings to contributing to a 'Better BA'.
British Airways believes in valuing the contributions of all its colleagues, which is reflected in a competitive reward and benefits package extending significantly beyond a standard salary. From the first day of employment, pilots gain access to extensive British Airways worldwide staff travel benefits, including unlimited basic and premium standby tickets on British Airways flights and up to 30 discounted 'Hotline' airfares annually for friends and family.
Further benefits include: